Let's Build Magic: Designing a magic system for your

I've always loved reading fantasy. Don't get me wrong, I'll read just about any genre, but I have a soft spot for fantasy. And I love when magic is part of the story. When done well, a magic system just becomes part of the story's fabric. But as a writer, I have learned how hard it can be to come up with a magic system. It takes thought, discipline and rules. And sometimes you have to push yourself to do it (or have someone push you. Toby, I'm looking at you and thinking of our lunch writing sessions at work).

In this post, I'll share some ideas that will help you shape a matic systtem for your own story.

Understand magic's role

Magic can shape characters’ morals, advance the plot, and underscore themes like power, responsibility, control, and chaos.

What role does magic play in your story? A gift? Curse? Something in the gray area between the two? In The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare, magic illustrates the balance between good and evil as characters battle dark forces that threaten humanity.

Where does magic come from?

Magic has to come from somewhere, and defining that source is critical. It might come from the natural world, ancient artifacts, the gods, or even the characters themselves. In J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter, magic is an inborn talent. In contrast, Brandon Sanderson’s Mistborn presents a system where users consume and "burn" metals for powerful abilities.

In your universe, think about:

1. Is magic accessible to everyone or only a select few?

2. Are there limitations?

3. What are the repercussions of using it?

   
   

Your source of magic can help create a framework that can influence your whole story.

Making the rules and breaking them

A compelling magic system requires clear rules. Having these guardrails helps create tension and conflict. If your characters can solve any problem with the snap of a finger, that doesn't make for a very compelling story.

When you're setting limitations, think about:

1. Do your magic users have vulnerabilities?

2. Is there a need for special rituals or unique materials?

3. Are there ethical implications to using magic?

   
   

The "law of equivalent exchange" limits the use of alchemy, forcing characters to deeply consider the cost of their actions in Hiromu Arakawa's Fullmetal Alchemist . By defining the rules, you deepen character development.

Plus, once you have your rules you have the opportunity to bend or break them--but remember, breaking the rules carries consequenses!

And speaking of consequences: Your magic system must have them, both physical and psychological. What happens to someone who overuses magic? Uses it for evil purposes? Having significant stakes can create tension in your story as characters need to make choices and then live with the consequenses.

Incorporate cultural and historical elements

Magic should seem like it is part of the fabric of your society, regardless of whether it is celebrated or condemned (and it can be both, it all depends on the perspective of your characters). Drawing on real-world folklore can lend richness and depth to your magic, enhancing the reader's experience.

Establishing various schools of magic has the potential to add depth, complexity and drama to your story. Just like the different factions in Divergent or the houses in Game of Thrones, creating diversity among magical practices can enhance the plot.

Consider how various magical disciplines might interact or conflict. You could have elemental mages specializing in fire, water, and earth whose rivalries spark drama and tension, leading to alliances and betrayals. And this can give you ways for your characters to grow and mature as they navigate these tricky waters.

Connect magic to characters and to their world

Think about how magic influences the motivations and relationships of your characters. For example, if your character has a rare form of magic, how do they feel? Are they revered but feel isolated? Are others jealous? What about someone who doesn't have magic? Do they feel inferior? Do they resent those with greater talent? How would this play out within a family setting when you add in sibling dynamics?

And as you're connecting the magic to your characters, think about how it shows up in their everyday lives. Are there magical markets that overflow with enchanted items (Think Diagon Alley)? Do towns celebrate festivals that honor magic traditions?

For your magic system to truly resonate, it should feel natural within your world's fabric, and creating details like this can help blend magic seamlessly into your setting and make it even more believable.

Make your own magic

Remember, your magic system doesn’t have to mirror anyone else's. It can be based in traditional ideas like elemental magic or you can stretch and create something unusual. Does your world have tiny magic goldfish that characters need to eat in order to boost their power? Or do they have to go through an elaborate preparation where they fast and paint their bodies?

Make your magic your own -- so now let your imagination run wild and turn your story into something special with your own unique brand of magic.